The second Myanmar Responsible Tourism Awards (MRTA) were held in Yangon this week. The aim of the awards is to highlight those tour companies that promote sustainable practices and empower local communities. “We want to encourage change in the industry and to single out for recognition those who are taking responsibility and can show evidence that they are having a positive impact towards responsible and sustainable tourism in Myanmar,” said U Nyunt Win Naing, chairman of the Myanmar Responsible Tourism Institute (MRTI), which organises the awards. The MRTAs involved seven awards in six categories. All categories go through a shortlist process before being selected by a group of seven judges. Yangon-based Sampan Travel was awarded Best Responsible Tourism Operator. Myanmar Adventure Outfitters, which specializes in tours in northern Shan State, won the newcomer prize. Other award winners on the night included Inle Princess Resort, which won most responsible tourism accommodation, Inle Horse Club for best innovation, and Inle Canoe Lady, for best product for empowerment. Ayeyarwady Dolphin Conservation and Ecotourism won the award for best community involvement in tourism. The Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp was recognized as the best responsible tourism awareness-raising project.
